Jakkopur, Bihar – A 17-year-old speech-impaired boy, Kundan Kumar, was allegedly beaten to death in Jakkopur village under Mahnar police station following a misunderstanding during the T20 World Cup 2026 final on Sunday.
Kundan, the youngest of four siblings and son of farmer Brijkishor Rai, was watching the cricket match on a cellphone with local youths when the incident occurred. Police have identified the main accused as 17-year-old Kisan Kumar, son of Visunkant Thakur, a resident of the same village.
According to villagers, the confrontation started when Kundan shouted after India lost a wicket. Others reportedly misinterpreted his reaction as a celebration, which led to an argument that quickly turned violent.
Kundan’s mother described the attack as sudden.
“On March 8, Kundan went out for some work and ended up near a group of boys watching the match. When India’s first wicket fell, he screamed. They thought he was happy about it and beat him, smashing his head,” she said.
Kundan was rushed to Mahnar Community Health Centre for initial treatment. Due to the severity of his injuries, doctors referred him to Hajipur Sadar Hospital and then to Patna Medical College and Hospital (PMCH). He died on the way to Patna early Monday morning.
Mahnar SDPO Praveen Kumar confirmed that the assault occurred during a dispute between the two youths. Kundan reportedly fell on a stone after being pushed, sustaining fatal injuries.
Police have formed two teams to apprehend the accused. A forensic team visited the crime scene and collected evidence, and raids are ongoing.
The tragic incident has sparked concern in the community and highlights the dangers of miscommunication and violence linked to sporting events.
